Ivabradine should be stopped if which condition occurs?

Stopping Ivabradine is warranted if atrial fibrillation occurs due to the mechanism of action of this medication. Ivabradine specifically reduces heart rate by inhibiting the If current in the sinoatrial node, effectively lowering the heart rate in patients with certain types of heart failure. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate, which can complicate the effects of Ivabradine. Continuing Ivabradine in a patient who develops atrial fibrillation could be counterproductive, as the drug is designed to manage heart rates in a more regular rhythm, and it may not be effective or safe in a situation where the heart rhythm becomes irregular and chaotic.

Other conditions like weight gain, high blood pressure, and uncontrolled hypertension might require clinical consideration, but they do not specifically contraindicate the use of Ivabradine like atrial fibrillation does. Weight gain could indicate fluid retention, and while it may suggest deteriorating heart failure, it doesn’t directly necessitate discontinuing the Ivabradine. Similarly, high blood pressure and uncontrolled hypertension need management but are not recognized as critical indicators for stopping Ivabradine treatment.